The Saudi Tourism Authority, under the auspices of His Excellency the Minister of Tourism, has launched its highly anticipated 2024 summer initiative, “Saudi Summer is Next Door.” This extensive program, spanning four months until the end of September, will cover seven captivating destinations and showcase over 550 unique tourism offerings. Additionally, more than 150 exclusive deals have been curated, catering to families, adventure enthusiasts, luxury seekers, and individuals passionate about culture and heritage.
The launch event, held under the patronage of His Excellency Ahmed Al Khateeb, Minister of Tourism and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Saudi Tourism Authority, was graced by the presence of the Secretary-General of the World Tourism Organization, Zurab Pololikashvili. Over 250 key partners from both the public and private sectors, along with prominent media and opinion leaders, attended the event to gain insights into the program’s comprehensive offerings.
The 2024 Saudi Summer Program will encompass a diverse range of locations, including Aseer, Al Baha, Taif, the Red Sea, Jeddah, Riyadh, and AlUla. Key highlights include the return of the much-anticipated Jeddah Season and the debut of the Aseer Season, both promising an array of family-oriented activities and events. The summer initiative will also be enriched by major events such as the inaugural Esports World Cup in Riyadh, where top global Esports talents will compete over an eight-week tournament, and several boxing events in Riyadh and Jeddah.
During the launch, His Excellency Ahmed Al Khateeb delivered a keynote speech, emphasizing current global tourism trends, the remarkable growth of the tourism sector within the Kingdom, and the unprecedented surge in tourist arrivals that have positioned Saudi Arabia as a leading destination among UN World Tourism and G20 nations.
His Excellency Ahmed Al Khateeb further stated, “Saudi Arabia is experiencing a transformative period in tourism, driven by our vision to establish the Kingdom as a premier global destination. The Saudi Summer Program 2024 is our commitment to showcasing the rich cultural heritage, breathtaking natural beauty, and unparalleled hospitality that Saudi Arabia offers. We invite domestic and international tourists to explore the diversity of our seven unique destinations and take advantage of the exceptional offers and packages designed to create unforgettable memories.”
His Excellency the Secretary-General of the World Tourism Organization, Zurab Pololikashvili, expressed his delight at attending the event and commended the unparalleled development of Saudi tourism, highlighting the remarkable leaps achieved in recent years. He attributed Saudi Arabia’s success to its strategic planning and the vast potential it possesses in terms of diverse climates, stunning natural landmarks, and the warm hospitality of its people.
Fahd Hamidaddin, CEO and Board Member of the Saudi Tourism Authority, emphasized the program’s focus on highlighting the unique climatic, natural, and cultural diversity of Saudi Arabia’s destinations, particularly during the summer months. He also highlighted the extensive collaboration with partners to offer over 550 tourism products and 150 special offers, including attractive deals from hotels, airlines offering free tickets for children, and exceptional products in the Aseer Season and Jeddah Season, such as tax-free shopping and exclusive experiences like private beaches for tourists and ladies’ beaches.
The theme “Saudi Summer is Next Door” serves as an alluring invitation to experience the enchanting variety of Saudi destinations, captured in enticing descriptors like “Closer,” “Cooler,” “More Beautiful,” and “More Affordable.” Recognizing the crucial role of the private sector in bolstering tourism initiatives, the Saudi Tourism Authority remains committed to promoting appealing products and deals that align with the expectations of global tourists.
The introduction of the Saudi Summer Program 2024 coincides with enhanced accessibility to the Kingdom, thanks to streamlined processes such as the eVisa available to citizens of 66 countries at a reduced cost, an increase in weekly flights to summer destinations totaling 1,100, and the special GCC residents’ visa. Additionally, the hospitality sector is set to expand, with an expected addition of 25,000 hotel rooms this year.
